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E46 (1999 - 2006) The fourth generation 3 Series (E46 chassis) was introduced in 1999 and set the standard for engineering and performance during it's years of production including being named to Car & Driver's 10 best list every one of those years! ! -- View the E46 Wiki

Hi all,
in my previous post I was looking for indy mech. in Tallahassee area. Be careful what you ask for! here's what's left of my car.

Short version:
indy. mechanic had my car for repairs at his shop over weekend
car caught on fire Monday morning in his warehouse bay (in storage facility)

he claims he wasn't working on car at the time
Car is ruined as you can see
5,500 in damages to car 2,500 in damages to warehouse bay
Found out yesterday he had no insurance at all
I didn't keep comp. insurance on the car once it hit 10th year

local salvage place offered $117.00. I'm filing small claims lawsuit but I'm looking for some much needed advice on what to do with the car now.

Jesus, dude. I've never been in any situations like this, but cars don't spontaneously combust. The way I see it, the mechanic was responsible for the car's well being (although not responsible for "lost" or "stolen" articles... we know how that goes), so he should have to pay out of pocket for any damages.

Just my opinion and I am not a lawyer. Do not use this as legal advice.

Terrible - sorry for your loss. That's his shop? It looks like a run down personal garage. Lessons to be learned - always ask to see a copy of the business insurance of an indy mechanic (and you can also call the ins company to verify coverage is in force) and even if a car is older - carry comprehensive (fire, theft, vandalism, animal, hail, flood) - on my 04 330i this coverage costs less than $100 per year. Drop the collision if you want to save money.

If the company that he has didn't have insurance in the first place, why is he even fixing cars? The douche bag gave you a burned up bimmer and thinks its okay? Send that ASS to court. No games dude. Of course legal action could be taken place that was simply irresponsible of the mechanic to have your car in labor and to give it back to you in ashes. aw man, I would of got heated. I'm so sorry for your loss man. That mechanic could just -Sigh-

He represented himself as an Independant Mechanic? He took possession of your car, it caught fire and he says, "Oops"?

I would call the Police ASAP, file a report, get a lawyer and pursue legal action. I hope that you received some type paperwork with an estimate for the work, email or voice message pertaining to the car.

Sorry to say it, but if you don't think enough of your car to carry comprehensive, then the only issue here is did the mechanic do something to cause the fire? Was he working on the fuel system? Unless he was negligent, why would he be liable?